“A Worn Path” Answer with complete sentences. Name ______________________
1. Describe Phoenix Jackson (both physically and emotionally).
2. Describe all of the components of the setting of this story (time of day, place,
time of year).
3. Identify three of the obstacles that Phoenix faces on her journey.
4. What is the hardest part of the journey for her?
5. In which sections of the story does her mind wander or play tricks on her?
6. What does Phoenix first think about the scarecrow?
7. Identify one humiliating experience that she has on the journey and one
triumph that she has on the journey.
8. Describe how the hunter treats Phoenix. Be specific with specific text
evidence.
9. What is wrong with Phoenix’s grandson?
10. Why does Phoenix make the long journey?
11. How does she intend to surprise her grandson?
12. Describe how the attendant in the office treats Phoenix. Why does she treat
her this way?
13. Identify three similes found in this story.
a.
b.
c.
14. What lesson can we learn from Phoenix? How is she like the phoenix from
mythology?
15. What is the meaning of the title of the story? Explain how Phoenix’s life is
like a worn path.
16. What does this story teach us about love and sacrifice?
17. What is the theme of this story (the main idea/lesson)? You should be able to
write the theme in one sentence.